Studio Scene: New Mixed Media Tropical Floral

Here's a new mixed media pattern with a tropical vibe I'm working on in the studio. Each floral design project begins with my camera and some flowers. Finding the best lighting means checking in the blooms at different times of the day. Then I drop the best images into Photoshop. I print the images and play around with them in a collage. Next it's back to Photoshop where I make more adjustments. This process can be repeated as many times as it takes to develop the perfect pattern. Stop by again and I'll share the completed pattern.

Design by Chris OlsonChris OlsonJune 15, 2016textile design, surface pattern designComment

Ice Princess Textile Design Collection

The Ice Princess design challenge over at Pattern Observer recently wrapped up. Here are three textile designs I created with ski apparel and equipment in mind.

Stay tuned. I'll be sharing more of the collection soon. And check out my mood board containing my pattern designs and photography from my favorite alpine playground -- Colorado and the Rocky Mountains!

From my Desk: Purple and Pink Pattern

I'm working on a collection that features this painting. Playing around with the design in Photoshop now. Where do I get my inspiration. Sometimes it's a close as stepping out on my deck.

Chris OlsonMay 28, 2016Comment

Studio Scene: Watercolor Polka Dots

I’m having fun painting indigo polka dots for a new textile print. Next I’ll pop the art into Photoshop and make adjustments. Stay tuned for more design process updates for the Pattern Observer Ice Princess design challenge.

My inspiration for the Ice Princess collection is my favorite playground—high altitude places in my home state of Colorado. Star gazing in the snow-capped mountains. Ice and snow reflecting in the Colorado light.

Design by Chris Olson, New PatternsChris OlsonMay 19, 2016watercolor, indigoComment

From My Sketchbook -- A Fresh Botanical Color Story

Today I'm sharing a glimpse inside my textile design process. My eye is naturally drawn to a vibrant pink because it speaks to love and friendship. In a botanical I like to include pink because it shows a softer side of the red hue—a hue that demands attention. Pink on the other hand attracts attention. Pink is the color of the goddess of love Venus—sensuous, delicious, and seductive without being overpowering. I paired it with other warm and friendly colors to create my botanical design. This design is a work in progress, check back next week and I'll share my finished artwork.

Design by Chris Olson, New PatternsChris OlsonMay 13, 2016sketchbook, Color, color storyComment

Pink Cotton Candy Abstract Pattern

It must be Friday because I've got candy on my mind... Today's pattern inspiration has a cotton candy vibe.

Happiness is pink paint and markers. It's a new abstract pattern that is also available as a seamless repeat.

Design by Chris Olson, Textile designChris OlsonMay 6, 2016watercolor, pink, abstract patternComment

Happy Doodle Textile Designs

My new Happy Doodle Textiles are designed to be bright, sunny and fun. I created these seamless repeat patterns with a playful vibe to make you smile and to generate positive feelings. Available in a variety of color combinations. Today I'm sharing three modern repeat patterns available in my Willow Collection and Sisters Collection. The hand drawn graphics combine whimsical designs and textures using a cheerful color palette.

My mixed media artwork combines markers, paint, crayons and mark making techniques. To create the seamless repeat patterns I pop my artwork into Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to tweak the colors and create the perfect pattern layout.

Introducing Aloha Waves

My tropical blue Aloha Waves pattern takes its design cues from sea and surf, tropical plants, polished rocks, hand woven fabric. It is part of my Kahula Collection.

Tips on Using Instagram To Build Your Creative Business

ScheduleIn my new post for the Pattern Observer blog I walk you through the upcoming changes to Instagram and provide a helpful list of 7 ways you can build your brand online starting today.

Chris OlsonMarch 29, 2016Comment

Today's Pattern: Romantic Floral

When I'm developing a floral pattern I begin with a field trip to see the real thing up close and personal. This dreamy purple and pink floral design is based on a carpet of flowers I fell in love with on a recent vacation. Details on this textile design in my Client Login section.

New Patterns, Fashion, Design by Chris OlsonChris OlsonMarch 15, 2016textile design, pink, surface design, purple, floral patternComment

Wildflower Meadow

To celebrate the first day of March, here's a sneak peek at my cheerful floral. This wildflower meadow pattern for textiles, packaging or home decor is inspired by the fields of poppies and lavender. Design is available in a seamless repeat.

Geos + Sunshine + Waves

My Kahula textile design is a mix of geos, sunshine, and waves. Featuring only the happy blues.

I designed this pattern to add positive energy and fun to your workout with unexpected prints feature a mix of modern basics with bold blue hues. It is part of a textile collection for activewear.

My patterns are available for purchase on my website. Access to my online client portfolio is available to manufacturers, licensees, art directors, etc.

Fashion, Surface Pattern DesignerChris OlsonFebruary 24, 2016surface pattern design, activewearComment

Pattern Bliss